Chabal signs new Sale deal

SALE Sharks have been handed the perfect Christmas present with the news that Sebastien Chabal has signed a new two-year deal with a further one-year option. The giant back-row forward, who was Sharks director of rugby Philippe Saint-Andre's first signing in 2004, emerged as arguably the biggest star at this autumn's World Cup in his native France.

SALE Sharks have been handed the perfect Christmas present with the news that Sebastien Chabal has signed a new two-year deal with a further one-year option.

The giant back-row forward, who was Sharks director of rugby Philippe Saint-Andre's first signing in 2004, emerged as arguably the biggest star at this autumn's World Cup in his native France.

As a result, the 30-year-old, who was out of contract at the end of this season, had become a key target for a phalanx of top French clubs.

Instead, much to the delight of Saint-Andre and the rest of his colleagues at Edgeley Park, the man Sharks fans affectionately refer to as `Seabass' will be staying in Cheshire for the next three years.

Decision

It's a huge coup for the 2006 Guinness Premiership champions, particularly coming as it does, hard on the heels of fellow World Cup star Andrew Sheridan's decision to pen a new three-year deal.

"I have enjoyed my time in England and am able to get on with playing rugby which I enjoy," said Chabal.

"If I lived and played in France, I think my wife would go crazy with all the supporter attention I receive there.

"But here, if English people recognise me, they don't come up to talk.

"Instead, I can focus on my rugby here and spend a lot of time with my family. Our life is good in England."

Saint-Andre, who shares a special bond with the No 8, has helped develop Chabal into one of world rugby's great destructive forwards and admitted he was delighted at retaining his services.

"Sebastien is a great player and is a fans favourite too," said Saint-Andre.

Future

"He always gives his best and, although he had received some big money offers to go and play in France, he has committed his future to Sale Sharks.

"People here don't realise how big a figure Sebastien is in France. Over there, he is bigger than the footballers, boxers and cyclists.

"In fact, if there was a Sports Personality of the Year award in France like in England, he would win it easily. He is mobbed wherever he goes.

"Now, he will play a big part in Sale's future and we are all delighted that he has signed a new deal."

Sale's chief executive James Jennings said: "Sebastian Chabal's decision is a testament to how world-class players like Seabass view Sale Sharks as a more attractive option than other leading European clubs.

"Sebastian is currently the best known and most popular sports personality in France, but he has opted to commit his future to Sale Sharks for the next two years at least.

"We are delighted that Seabass is staying with the club and look forward to enjoying many more seasons of his dynamic and attacking style of play."